If there’s one recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, it’s Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes. This dish checks every box for busy weeknights—simple prep, family-friendly flavors, and that magical slow cooker convenience. As a mom of three, I’ll tell you—dinners like this are the reason I keep my crockpot on standby. By the time evening rolls around, it smells like you’ve been cooking all day (without the effort).
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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Minimal prep—just 15 minutes and you’re done.
- Perfect for picky eaters (cheese + potatoes = no complaints).
- Comforting, hearty, and still wholesome.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully—making lunch the next day a breeze.
What Does Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes Taste Like?
Think of juicy, tender chicken infused with garlic and herbs, cozy little potatoes that soak up every bit of flavor, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that melts into a creamy, savory coating. It’s like Sunday dinner comfort…on a Tuesday night.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
When it comes to making Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes, the magic is really in the simple, wholesome ingredients that slowly meld together in your crockpot. Nothing fancy—just pantry staples and a few fresh items that create that irresistible flavor your family will ask for again and again.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts (4 boneless, skinless): These are the heart of the dish. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes this recipe lean and family-friendly, but if you prefer richer flavor, chicken thighs are a delicious alternative.
- Baby Red Potatoes (1 lb, halved or quartered): These little gems hold their shape beautifully in the slow cooker while soaking up the garlicky Parmesan goodness. Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes also work well—choose whichever you love.
- Olive Oil (1/3 cup): A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil gives the chicken and potatoes that luxurious, slightly fruity flavor and helps the seasoning cling to every bite.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): A little citrus adds brightness to balance the richness of the Parmesan.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp): This adds just a subtle tangy kick, making the whole dish pop.
- Dried Basil and Oregano (2 tsp each): Classic Italian herbs that pair perfectly with garlic and cheese, infusing the dish with comforting aroma.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced): The star of the show! Garlic brings warmth, depth, and that cozy kitchen smell we all adore.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a touch of smokiness and color—don’t skip it if you want that wow factor.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp): A simple way to add savory flavor without extra chopping.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Creamy, salty, and nutty—Parmesan is what ties everything together. For extra indulgence, sprinkle more on top before serving.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): A final sprinkle of green that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re a fan of cozy, hearty dinners like this, you’ll also love my Crockpot Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup—another slow cooker favorite that pairs tender chicken with potatoes in a creamy broth.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Making Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is as easy as layering, whisking, and letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide so you can follow along with confidence:
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray or a thin layer of olive oil. This keeps the chicken and potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer on the bottom of the crockpot. Keeping them flat helps them cook evenly, giving you tender, juicy chicken every time.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
Next, add your halved baby red potatoes on top and around the chicken. Try to keep them nestled close to the chicken so they absorb the garlicky Parmesan seasoning as it cooks.
Step 4: Whisk the Seasoning Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Dried basil and oregano
- Minced garlic
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
This mixture should smell absolutely heavenly—like a mini Italian kitchen right on your countertop.
Step 5: Pour and Coat
Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes, making sure everything gets coated. Use a spoon to gently toss the potatoes so every piece is kissed with herbs and garlic.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. As it melts during cooking, it forms a savory layer that ties the dish together.
Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the crockpot with its lid.
- Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
The chicken should be fully cooked (165°F internally), and the potatoes fork-tender.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm, right from the crockpot, or plate it with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
💡 Personal tip: Sometimes I transfer the cooked chicken and potatoes to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle on a little extra Parmesan, and broil for 2–3 minutes. It gives the top that irresistible golden, crispy finish.
👉 Love crockpot recipes that make your home smell amazing all day? Try my Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. It has that same cozy, set-it-and-forget-it charm that makes weeknight dinners so much easier.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
- Crispy finish: Pop the cooked chicken and potatoes under the broiler for 2–3 minutes with a little extra Parmesan.
- Veggie boost: Toss in carrots or green beans before cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes gives a nice little kick.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Personal note: My kids love sneaking little bites of the potatoes while I’m plating this. If I don’t keep an eye on them, I swear half the batch goes missing before it even makes it to the table.
Storage for Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
Cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven—add a splash of chicken broth if it feels a little dry.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs stay extra juicy and work perfectly here.
What can I serve with this dish?
A crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even garlic bread.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—just skip the Parmesan or swap for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
There’s something so satisfying about letting your crockpot do the work while you go about your day. This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to mean complicated cooking. Next time you need a hands-off dinner that feels like a win, give this one a try—you might just find it becomes a new family favorite.
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Print
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes – The Ultimate Family Dinner
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes dish packs a punch of flavor with zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and creamy Parmesan, making dinner a breeze!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb baby red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1⁄3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Lightly grease a slow cooker with non-stick spray. Arrange chicken breasts in an even layer in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add halved potatoes over and around the chicken.
3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried basil, dried oregano, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the prepared mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring they are all coated with the seasoning.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes.
6. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
7. Once cooked, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
8. Serve warm with your choice of side or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Baby red potatoes keep their shape well during cooking, but Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes are great alternatives.
For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
If you prefer a crispy topping, transfer the cooked chicken and potatoes to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with additional Parmesan, and broil for 2-3 minutes.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the crockpot, such as green beans or carrots, for added nutrition.
